“Naked nasi lemak for RM5.90” Local Chef Criticises Popular M’sian F&B Chain For Selling Sambal Separately

Malaysian celebrity Chef Zam recently voiced his dissatisfaction towards a popular restaurant chain for its Nasi Lemak, which is sold at a high price.

In his TikTok post @Chef.zam, Chef Zam said he ordered a set of Nasi Lemak with Chicken Rendang and a large glass of Teh Ais, which cost him RM17.90.

Portion of chicken and… Sambal sold separately

According to his explanation, the plain Nasi Lemak with mere anchovies and half a hard-boiled egg is priced at RM5.90. The sambal is sold separately at an additional price. The separate plate of Chicken Rendang, which is a new promo costs RM4.90 but Chef Zam was not happy with the portion. 

“There are just a few small pieces of chicken, and some fats. I have not eaten any of the chicken pieces, I just moved it around to show you the portion. Seriouly, RM4.90?”

The chef also pointed out that students in a kindergarten would’ve received a larger portion of chicken, calling it ridiculous.

Chef Zam was also baffled that customers have to pay extra for Sambal – a condiment that should be in the Nasi Lemak itself. Imagine buying a Nasi Lemak on its own only to find out you have to pay an extra charge for Sambal, which Chef Zam dubbed “naked Nasi Lemak.”

“They expect you to buy additional sambal to eat with RM5.90 Nasi Lemak telanjang (Naked Nasi Lemak). There is no Sambal at this price. Seriously?”

The disappointed chef continued to express his disappointment and said “All that glitters is not gold.”

“Seriously, a big brand like this. I had to pay extra for Sambal. What is this? You’re cheating customers.”

In his post, Chef Zam also tagged the Ministry of Domestic Trade and Costs of Living (KPDN) to get their attention on the matter.

You can watch the full video here.

What do you think of Chef Zam’s take on the matter?

Also read: “1 burger is RM16!” – M’sian Visits TTDI Ramadhan Bazaar & Shocked at Food Prices, Calls it T20 Bazaar